Blade Divestiture from Nortel Networks
Build-out of complete accounting, commercial, and legal infrastructure for Blade Network Technologies following its spin-out from Nortel Networks—culminating in a successful sale to IBM.
Situation
Blade Network Technologies was spun out of Nortel Networks in 2006 as a standalone company backed by Garnett & Helfrich Capital. As a spin-out, Blade needed to establish all of its own operational infrastructure—accounting, finance, corporate development, legal, and compliance functions—from the ground up, while simultaneously operating and growing the business.
Approach
Dr. Stefan Zuckut joined Blade as an executive to build the company's accounting, commercial, and legal infrastructure from scratch. He led corporate development, finance, and legal functions worldwide, establishing the processes, systems, and team needed to operate as an independent company and prepare it for a successful exit.
Key Objective
Build a fully functional, independently operated company from a Nortel spin-out and position it for a successful acquisition.
Engagement Highlights
- Built accounting, finance, and legal infrastructure from scratch post spin-out
- Led corporate development, including M&A evaluation and investor relations
- Established worldwide legal and compliance functions
- Prepared the company for acquisition diligence and sale process
- Sold to IBM in 2010 — became the most successful PE investment by Garnett & Helfrich Capital